Men’s Health: Checkups

How often should men go for a checkup?

Men and Their Cars

It’s often said that men take better care of their cars than their bodies. While that might be true, it’s more important now than ever for men to get regular medical checkups.

I like to use the car analogy of preventative maintenance for guys. I ask how long their car will run without changing the oil…about 50,000 miles? I tell guys that at about 40 years of age, or at 50,000 miles, without any care, their “engine” could very well blow up.

There are numerous health-related problems that can be detected and remedied early. Often men have no distinguishable early symptoms with such conditions as heart disease, colon cancer, hormone imbalances, or diabetes. But simple tests such as cholesterol panels, hormone screening, and blood glucose/insulin levels provide the information needed to help head off medical problems early on.

Cancer, in particular, is a subject typically off limits to men. It’s something men just do not talk about. Men seem to have a sense of invulnerability. It’s a guy thing to be macho, confident, and somewhat fearless. Those are all qualities we might admire in business, but in terms of health, they can be fatal. According to the research, two-thirds of cancers can be prevented with lifestyle changes and/or early detection. More than half of all new cancers can be detected early. So… an annual physical exam could save his life.

I suggest that when your “special man” goes for his next checkup, he should talk to his doctor about how he can stay healthy and young, no matter what his age. Ask for a complete hormone panel. Balancing hormones is just as important for men as it is for women, as it helps prevent heart disease, improves zest for life, and helps with energy, endurance, strength, and stamina. Hormone balance can also improve his physique, aid in the struggle against weight gain, and help him feel great emotionally, mentally, and physically!

If his doctor does not know how to order a hormone profile or discourages it, consider seeing a certified hormone expert.